20170912 DACA Protest March

Dreamers and supporters protest end of DACA
Over 200 DACA recipients (Dreamers), families, friends and supporters protested the ending of DACA by peacefully marching from Heritage High School (HHS) in Rogers to Frisco Stage on Tuesday afternoon, September 12th after school let out at 3:30pm.
Many students from the school were in the march, along with alumni of the school, several of whom were DACA recipients. Brig Caldwell, Student Relations for HHS, said this was not his idea but he did help students organize the event after they approached him for assistance. He said “It’s a teachable moment for students when they are energized and want to take action”.
Despite the jovial appearance and energetic chanting, there were darker undertones. A DACA recipient (name withheld) who attended with her young children and friends said “I’m not going [to Mexico], the only way they’ll send me back is dead”. Another protester Edgar Canales, student at HHS, who carried a Mexican flag joined to an American flag said he “hopes it stays peaceful and opens eyes in the community”.
Along with a police escort to manage traffic, the march progressed at a brisk pace. Along the route, protesters shouted chants such as “Stop the hate! Stop the fear, immigrants are welcome here” and arrived uneventfully at the Frisco Stage in downtown Rogers where they sat and listened to several speakers who urged everyone to speak up, and especially to contact their representatives and senators.
Coach Saavedra, Heritage High School, was the last speaker on the stage and he closed with the thought “Without any Dreamers it doesn’t matter how many dreams you have”.

Brig Caldwell, Student Relations at Heritage High School, talks to the 40/29 news crew. He said he didn't start this protest, but helped the students when they approached him. He said "It's a teachable moment for students when they are energised and want to take action".